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Mom vs. Dad: The Bedtime Routine

Option 1: Lil Ma and Daddy put on PJs, read two stories, and sing a song. Daddy then places the kid in her crib. Lil Ma grabs her lovie, snuggles under the covers, and starts to snore almost immediately.

Daddy then tells Mini Me to go to bed. She gets up, kisses him goodnight, and runs to her room.

Option 2: Lil Ma and Mommy put on PJs, read two stories, and sing a song. Mommy then places the kid in her crib. Lil Ma grabs her lovie, stands up with arms outstretched, and screams at the top of her lungs. Mommy tiptoes out of the room, hoping that Lil Ma will settle down soon, which happens after a few minutes.

Mommy then tells Mini Me to got to bed. She falls dramatically to the floor and asks if she can stay up “just a little longer.”

I’d like to say that the girls act this way because they like me better and want to spend more time with me. The truth is they know they can get over on me every once in a while, especially when I’m distracted. On nights like that, I sometimes miss our bedtime mark by nearly half an hour.

Hubby, however, is focused. He’s not trying to throw another load of clothes in the wash or send a quick work email. My guy also is not a sucker for theatrics. I get caught up in their antics more often than I should. I swear these kids are honing their skills for Hollywood.

This week, I have promised myself to stay focused. I will be the Teflon Mom — none of their tricks will stick to me!